Lando Norris shines in final practice at Emilia-Romagna GP, leading McLaren one-two
Lando Norris Tops Final Practice at Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix
Lando Norris posted the fastest time in final practice for the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix on Saturday, propelling McLaren to a dominant finish ahead of qualifying. The Briton completed a one-two finish for McLaren, edging out teammate and current championship leader Oscar Piastri in a stellar display at Ferrari's home circuit in Imola.
Norris' lap of 1:14.897 etched his name atop the timesheets, marking a clean sweep for McLaren in all three practice sessions over the weekend. Piastri, who had set the pace during Friday's sessions, was just 0.100 seconds behind, affirming the team's stronghold as the fastest outfit so far.
Oscar Piastri: The Man to Beat
Australian rookie Piastri, who leads the championship standings by 16 points after six rounds, remains the man to beat heading into qualifying. But the competition looks to be stiff, with Red Bull's Max Verstappen showing glimpses of his trademark dominance. The four-time world champion and reigning titleholder at Imola posted the third-fastest time, only 0.181 seconds adrift of Norris despite running on the medium tires.
Speaking after practice, Norris reflected on McLaren's continued momentum this weekend, saying, "It's been a strong start for us, but we know every detail matters going into qualifying. The competition is fierce, so we'll need to be on point."
Mercedes and Ferrari in the Mix
Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli made a strong impression ahead of his home debut, clocking the fourth-best time. The 18-year-old Bologna native was half a second off the leader but continues to impress on the big stage. Charles Leclerc ensured Ferrari fans had something to cheer about, setting the fifth-fastest time, while seven-time world champion and new Ferrari recruit Lewis Hamilton clocked in 10th on soft tires as he prepares for his first race in Scuderia red.
Midfield Highlights
Carlos Sainz, now driving for Williams after departing Ferrari, claimed sixth on the timing sheets, while Racing Bulls' Isack Hadjar and Mercedes' George Russell followed closely behind. Williams' Alex Albon rounded out the top nine.
Meanwhile, Alpine’s newest addition, Argentine rookie Franco Colapinto, struggled in his debut and placed 18th in practice. Colapinto was called up to replace Australian Jack Doohan, whose team exit last week made headlines.
All Eyes on Qualifying
With qualifying up next, all eyes are on McLaren's impressive pace and whether Norris or Piastri can translate their strong practice form into pole position. Verstappen and the chasing pack, however, have no intentions of making it easy.
Stay tuned as the fight for grid supremacy unfolds later today.
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